Ocean City in December
America's Greatest Family Resort in December
Ocean City December 2026 events, by date
2 confirmed events with a date on file.
December 4
Ocean City Christmas ParadeFree
6:00 PM · Asbury Avenue, 6th Street to 11th Street
December 31
4:00 PM - midnight · Throughout Ocean City
December is off-season in Ocean City. Known for its family resort, Ocean City is especially popular with beaches and relaxation.
Weather & Conditions
45°F
High / 32°F Low
46°F
Too cold for swimming
9
Rainy days avg
Holiday season. Cape May decorated beautifully. Cold but festive. Some businesses closed.
Beach Status
Beach Badges
Not required
Lifeguards
Not on duty
Swimming
Too cold
Too cold for swimming (46°F). Great for peaceful beach walks.
Why Visit Ocean City in December
2 dated December events
Ocean City Christmas Parade (December 4); First Night Ocean City (December 31).
Fewer Crowds
Beaches are quiet. Check restaurant hours before you go.
Plan a Seasonal Stay
Check property opening dates, dining hours, and indoor amenities for a December stay. Compare complete quotes for your group.
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December Events in Ocean City
First Night Ocean City
Family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration with drone light shows, tribute concerts at Music Pier, boardwalk activities, and midnight fireworks over the ocean.
Book Your Ocean City Trip
Review each provider's cancellation, payment and deposit terms
Activities in December
| Activity | Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Swimming | Too cold | |
| Surfing | Off-season - for dedicated surfers | |
| Fishing Charters | Check with operators | |
| Boardwalk | Mostly closed | |
| Restaurant Scene | Most restaurants open |
Where to Eat
Spadafora's Seafood Market
Local favorite
Secret Garden Cafe & Bakery
Local favorite
Seaville Tavern
Local favorite
Where to Stay in December
Plan your December stay in Ocean City around confirmed property opening dates and the amenities you will use.
Tip: Confirm pool access, dining hours, and seasonal services. If your dates are flexible, compare another date range using the same room and terms.
Choose your Ocean City stay
Before you book: the stay-cost checklist.
Check Ocean City stays for your dates
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Tips for Visiting Ocean City in December
- •Pack warm layers - temperatures can be chilly, especially near the water.
- •NJ Transit serves Ocean City by train or bus, so you can skip parking.
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Ocean City in December FAQs
What is the weather like in Ocean City in December?
December in Ocean City averages highs of 45°F and lows of 32°F. Holiday season. Cape May decorated beautifully. Cold but festive. Some businesses closed. Water temperature is around 46°F.
Can you swim at Ocean City beaches in December?
Water temperature is 46°F - too cold for most swimmers. Great for beach walks though!
Do you need beach badges in Ocean City in December?
No badges required during the off-season.
How crowded is Ocean City in December?
December is off-season - Ocean City is peaceful and uncrowded. Some businesses may have limited hours.
What are the best things to do in Ocean City in December?
In December, Ocean City is great for Holiday getaways, Cape May Christmas, Winter birding. Also consider Ocean City Boardwalk.